Former Racing Metro coach Simon Mannix claimed that three Fijian players were paid to stay at the club during last year’s World Cup.

Mannix, a former All Black, told British newspaper The Independent, that Josh Matavesi, Jone Qovu and Sireli Bobo were given money to focus on their French club commitments.

Rob Nichol, the chief executive officer of the International Rugby Players Association, said they have been made aware of various situations where this kind of thing has happened, but the players concerned have not wanted to take it to the next level.

Former Flying Fijians flyhalf Nicky Little describes the practice as blackmail.

Meanwhile, Deacon Manu has been named as captain for the Europe tour.

Fiji will play England at 3:30am Sunday.


Story by: Akuila Cama